The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged closer collaboration between the Niger State Government and traditional institutions to curb the spread of cholera, following confirmation of 150 positive cases and 16 deaths since the outbreak began.
Cholera is bacterial disease that causes severe diarrhoea and dehydration. It is usually spread via contaminated water.
UNICEF’s Kaduna Field Office, through Health Specialist Dr Ahmed Tsofo, said during a courtesy call on the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Farouq Bahago, that the outbreak remained a public health emergency requiring swift and coordinated action.
He explained that hundreds of suspected cases had been identified, with confirmed patients receiving treatment and subsequently discharged.
Read Also: Cholera alert: Lagos sensitises vendors, waste workers
According to UNICEF, the rise in fatalities underscores the need for prompt intervention, improved access to clean water, and enhanced hygiene practices across affected communities.
The agency is also engaging stakeholders on other health challenges, including the fight against polio, the prevention of measles, and increasing exclusive breastfeeding rates.
Dr Tsofo appealed for the Emir’s support in mobilising residents for vaccination exercises and hygiene campaigns, noting that traditional leaders play a critical role in influencing community behaviour.
In his remarks, the Emir assured UNICEF of his cooperation, promising to use his position to promote health initiatives and foster unity in tackling disease outbreaks.
